Chelsea have now shortlisted a Barcelona star among their “priority” targets for the summer transfer window, after hearing about the player’s release clause, with BlueCo handed a chance to sign him for £55 million.
Chelsea transfers dependent on Champions League qualification
The tight race for a spot in next season’s Champions League draw will define the success of Enzo Maresca’s first season in charge at Stamford Bridge, and it will also play a vital role when it comes to their summer transfer policy.
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1 ByEmilio GalantiniApr 30, 2025
Chelsea want to sign a new centre-back, winger and striker this summer (Simon Phillips), with rumoured talks already held over a move for Borussia Dortmund starlet Jamie Gittens recently.
However, failure to qualify for the Champions League next season could threaten to alter these plans, by Maresca’s own admission in a recent press conference.
“Football is not five, 10 years ago when the rules were different,” said the head coach.
Liverpool (home)
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Newcastle (away)
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Man United (home)
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Nottingham Forest (away)
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“Today you have to be careful how much you spend. It will be a completely different kind of target if we finish in the Champions League.”
In Chelsea’s pursuit of a central defender, Bournemouth starlet Dean Huijsen is reliably believed to be a serious target for Maresca’s side, but they face stiff competition from elite Premier League rivals.
Alternatively, perhaps a move for Barcelona’s Ronald Araujo could be on the cards.
The Uruguay international’s contract will include a release clause of around £55 million when it becomes active in July, presenting an opportunity for Chelsea to swoop in and strike a deal for him.
Chelsea prioritising move for Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo
That is according to reports in Spain, which state that Chelsea are now prioritising a move for Araujo this summer amid knowledge of the clause.
Araujo signed a new deal earlier this year, committing him to the Camp Nou until 2031, but it appears his agents negotiated this exit clause to give the South American a chance to part company if he wishes.
Injuries have largely diminished the 26-year-old’s playing time under Hansi Flick this term, but Araujo has been entrusted with the captain’s armband when fit and available.
The defender has also been lavished with praise by Barcelona legend Carles Puyol during his time in Catalonia.
“He’s in extraordinary condition,” said Puyol in 2023.
“I’ll stick with what they’ve told me, because I don’t know him personally, but he’s very professional, humble, he always gives his best in training and matches and that’s where his performance is.
“Right now, if he’s not the best central defender in the world, he’s among the top three. He’s young, he still has room for improvement and I think we have a very good central defender at Barcelona for many years to come.”
